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Sherni (2021): Cast, Ratings, Plot & Where to Watch

Sherni (2021) movie poster

Sherni is a 2021 drama directed by Amit Masurkar, starring Vidya Balan as Vidya Vincent, Brijendra Kala and Mukul Chadda. Critics gave it 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 6.8/10. Stream it on Amazon Prime Video, or rent or buy it on Amazon Video.

IMDb rating
6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes
100%
Echo Score
81
Sherni (2021) movie poster
Released
Director
Amit Masurkar
Genre
Drama
Original language
Hindi
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Sherni About?

The premise of Sherni without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.

A determined forest officer ventures deep into the Indian wilderness in pursuit of a tigress that has been preying on livestock. While tracking the animal, she confronts not only the dangers of the forest but also the complex relationship between humans and wildlife, and the challenges faced by those who protect it. The officer must find a way to resolve the conflict and restore balance in the region.

Sherni Themes & Keywords

· 2 tags
  • wildlife
  • world
Where to watch

Where to Watch Sherni

Stream it on Amazon Prime Video, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

Streaming availability in the US, powered by JustWatch logo

Cast & crew

Sherni Cast & Characters

Vidya Balan leads the cast as Vidya Vincent, with Brijendra Kala as Bansilal Bansal and Mukul Chadda as Pawan. Directed by Amit Masurkar; 10 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Sherni

· 6 more
Ratings

Sherni Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Sherni 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 6.8/10. Our Echo Score gives it 81/100, strongest in character & emotion (88) and weakest in rewatch factor (70).

81 /100

Sherni Echo Score Breakdown

Sherni presents a compelling blend of environmental concern and personal resolve, anchored by Vidya Balan's measured performance. Critics consistently commend its thoughtful narrative and authentic setting, while noting a restrained energy level that limits excitement. User feedback highlights the film's steady pacing and resonant soundtrack, reinforcing its lasting impression. Overall, the film succeeds in delivering a nuanced, socially relevant experience that remains memorable after viewing.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 80

    In terms of art and craft, the film benefits from a grounded visual palette and purposeful direction. Critics emphasize the authentic texture of the setting and commend the cinematography for capturing the natural landscape effectively. User comments echo this sentiment, noting the absence of gratuitous drama. The overall production design supports the film’s thematic focus without drawing attention to itself.

  • Character & Emotion 88

    When evaluating character and emotion, Vidya Balan's portrayal stands out as nuanced and compelling. Reviewers describe her performance as effortless and emotionally resonant, highlighting her ability to embody the film’s environmental champion. Supporting actors receive positive acknowledgment for reinforcing the protagonist’s journey. The ensemble’s chemistry contributes to a believable depiction of societal conflict, strengthening audience engagement.

  • Story & Flow 72

    The story and flow receive mixed appraisal, balancing thoughtful messaging with a restrained narrative drive. Critics note the film’s lack of overt excitement, yet appreciate its coherent articulation of environmental dilemmas. Users commend the pacing and realistic portrayal of social issues, though a desire for greater momentum is expressed. Overall, the plot remains engaging, though it leans more toward contemplation than high‑octane drama.

  • Sensory Experience 78

    Sensory experience is enhanced by an effective soundtrack and immersive visual style. Audience members praise the music for its emotional resonance, while critics commend the film’s naturalistic sound design and cinematographic choices that showcase the wilderness. The cohesive aesthetic supports the thematic core without overwhelming the narrative, delivering a balanced auditory and visual environment.

  • Rewatch Factor 70

    Rewatch factor is moderate, driven by the film’s lingering thematic relevance and subtle artistry. Critics mention that the film stays with viewers, prompting reflection on environmental issues. Users describe the experience as an enjoyable two‑hour ride, suggesting a willingness to revisit. While the restrained energy may limit repeat viewings for some, the lasting impression of its message sustains interest.

Plot

Sherni Plot Summary

What happens in Sherni from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 15 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 5-minute read.

Spoilers ahead

Vidya Vincent [Vidya Balan] is appointed as the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in a sensitive zone in Madhya Pradesh. It is her first field posting, and she approaches the job with evident passion and a strong sense of duty. Her team includes Pyare Lal, a fellow forest officer who uses motion sensor cameras to track tiger movements, and Babbal, Vidya’s driver. When she discovers that water holes in the forest are not being replenished by the local contractor Manish, she publicly admonishes him and serves him a show-cause notice. Yet her authority is routinely undermined by her senior, Bansilal Bansal [Brijendra Kala], whose influence stretches through a local MLA, creating a tense political backdrop where the contractor’s political connections shield mismanagement.

Full summary

The whole story of Sherni, scene by scene

Read the full summary
Quiz

How Well Do You Know Sherni?

8 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.

Question 1 of 8

  1. Question 1: not answered
  2. Question 2: not answered
  3. Question 3: not answered
  4. Question 4: not answered
  5. Question 5: not answered
  6. Question 6: not answered
  7. Question 7: not answered
  8. Question 8: not answered

Which actress plays the role of Vidya Vincent, the Divisional Forest Officer?

Details

Sherni Also Known As

2 alternative titles: “母狮” and “雌虎”.

Also known as
  • 母狮
  • 雌虎

Seen Sherni?

FAQ

Sherni FAQ: Where to Watch, Cast & Release Date

Release date, director, cast, where to watch, ratings, post-credit scenes and language of Sherni, each answered in a sentence.

When was Sherni released?

Sherni was released on June 18, 2021.

Who directed Sherni?

Sherni was directed by Amit Masurkar.

More films by Amit Masurkar

Who is in the cast of Sherni?

Sherni stars Vidya Balan as Vidya Vincent, Brijendra Kala as Bansilal Bansal and Mukul Chadda as Pawan, among 10 credited actors.

Where can I watch Sherni?

In the US, Sherni is streaming on Amazon Prime Video and available to rent or buy on Amazon Video (availability from JustWatch).

How is Sherni rated?

Sherni has 6.8/10 on IMDb, 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 63% on TMDB.

Does Sherni have a post-credit scene?

No. Sherni has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Sherni in?

The original language of Sherni is Hindi.

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